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MARTHA VERA BANIAS
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our sister, aunt, godmother, and travel agent, Martha Banias. She was predeceased by her parents, Mykhailo and Olga, as well as her siblings Alexander, Lubomyr, and Marika.
Thank to Dr. Asher Mendelson and all of the nurses at the Grace that looked after Martha.
A memorial and Celebration of Life will take place in June.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 25, 2026
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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I heard about Martha's passing today, and I am so saddened by it. Martha was my point person when it came to securing flights for work or pleasure. She always made suggestions on things I could do when I have a long layover. Always very prompt in sharing a quote, and I really appreciated her straightforwardness about tricky things. I will really miss working with her on all my future trip plans - I never met Martha in person ... we always communicated on phone or email but she was a delight to work with and I will miss her. - Posted by: Sila Kisoso (Travel agent client) on: May 06, 2026
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I met Martha in the mid 1990s and she became my travel agent and ultimately became my friend. I introduced her and Bonnie, another good friend to gin rummy and she embraced the game almost to a point of addiction. Martha approached the game the same way, I believe as she approached life, as a fierce competitor with calculated risk while adding her own unique flair. Over the years we spent hundreds of hours playing and socializing into late hours and sometimes early mornings. She was fun and will be missed. My condolences to her family and to those who knew her. - Posted by: fred miller (Friend) on: May 01, 2026
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Martha was truly an exceptional person, known for her unwavering dedication and professionalism that made a lasting impact on everyone she met. My introduction to Martha came by way of Diane Demare, who was once a fellow member of the Great Canadian Travel Company. Diane, before her own passing, assured me that Martha would take care of all my travel needs with the utmost attention, and her recommendation was absolutely justified. Martha was a “pistol”—straightforward, no-nonsense, and blessed with a wicked sense of humour that made every interaction lively and memorable. Over time, we became friends, and her expertise was always appreciated. When Martha told you she had found the best deal possible, you knew you could count on her word. She was always there for her clients, even in the most challenging circumstances, such as when someone was stranded in a foreign country due to a cancelled flight. Martha’s commitment knew no boundaries; she was always available to help. Recently, Martha completed the arrangements for my dream holiday to Croatia. As I set out on that journey this coming autumn, I plan to raise a glass in her honour, feeling her presence with me in spirit. To Martha’s family, friends, and colleagues at the Great Canadian Travel Company, I extend my deepest condolences. Martha’s absence will be profoundly felt, yet her legacy and the care she provided will continue to live on in our memories. If possible, I would appreciate being informed about her celebration of life, as I would like to attend and convey my sympathies in person. - Posted by: Suzanne Nolette (Client and friend) on: Apr 29, 2026
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Martha was a great friend, I will miss her dearly, we had so much fun playing gin over the years. she was always happy go lucky and nothing seemed to fizz her, she just went with the flow. My deep condolences to her family. - Posted by: Bonnie Hudacek (Friend) on: Apr 26, 2026
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I was a friend and client of Martha's for many years. She was a wonderful Travel Agent and a great friend. Condolences to her family. She will be missed. - Posted by: Christine Spencer (Friend) on: Apr 25, 2026
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To Martha’s family , I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. I have been a client of Martha for over 10 years of her employment with Great Canadian Travel. Martha was not only very good at her job but very easy to love her sense of humour. Martha will I’m sure be missed by so many as I know I will. Rest in peace Martha. - Posted by: Diane Derkach (Client) on: Apr 25, 2026
